"God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them." (NIV)

Do you ever feel discouraged that even though you are doing good works no-one is noticing? Do you feel that your work is not acknowledged or appreciated? It is true that it may go un-noticed here on earth, but our Father in heaven sees it all. He rejoices when He sees us loving others and He never forgets this. Remember that the Bible tells us that we will “receive our rewards in Heaven.”  Matthew 10:42 says “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” (NIV)

The Easy English Bible version reads “God is always right and fair. He will not forget all the good things you have done. You have shown you love him very much, because you have helped the other believers. And you continue to help them as Gods servants.”

Anyone can do good works whether they believe in the Lord or not, but this verse is reminding us that if our good works come from a place of faith and in the name of Jesus then they are truly coming from our heart, and by continuing to do this, Gods promise to us will come to fruition. When it is a labour of love, when love is the only motive with no hope of recompense then we are acting as Jesus did. Be encouraged and reassured that those of us who believe in God, and the work done in His name is valued by Him. This should inspire us to continue doing charitable deeds in Jesus’ name.

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Application:

• Serve others with the assurance that God sees and values your efforts.
• Let this verse motivate you to continue acts of kindness and service, even when they go unrecognized by people.
• Reflect on ways you can show love and support to fellow believers in your community.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you that you are the all-seeing God, and I thank you that you recognise my efforts and faithfulness to you. I pray that you will show me the opportunities where I may continue to serve others and show love and compassion, just as your son did for us when on earth and continues to do now in heaven. Amen.